A new legal challenge in Washington, DC, is putting Apple’s supply chain under renewed scrutiny. The advocacy group International Rights Advocates has filed a lawsuit accusing the tech giant of using minerals from conflict zones in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, despite Apple’s public denials that its supply chain includes such minerals. The complaint specifically points to cobalt, tin, tantalum, and tungsten, allegedly linked to human rights abuses and armed groups in the DRC. This legal action seeks a court declaration that Apple violates consumer protection laws through its marketing, though it does not request monetary damages. In response to past allegations, Apple has maintained a firm stance, asserting it has instructed suppliers to avoid materials from these regions and that its supply chain is rigorously audited. This lawsuit revives a complex debate about ethical sourcing in the tech industry, contrasting corporate accountability with the grim realities of mineral extraction.
Aljazeera
